Overview

The Dance programme at Western Washington University provides a rigorous environment where students develop their unique artistic voices through physical and intellectual exploration. This course integrates technical mastery with scholarly research to prepare graduates for the evolving landscape of the contemporary performing arts.

Students benefit from a curriculum that balances traditional technique with modern somatic practices and dance science. The department fosters a supportive community where individuality is celebrated, encouraging performers to explore interdisciplinary collaborations and creative processes. Small class sizes ensure personalised instruction from a faculty of experienced professionals.

The learning environment is designed to nurture self-discipline, problem-solving, and collaborative skills.

Why Dance at Western Washington University?

The institution is distinguished by its faculty, who maintain active professional careers as choreographers and performers alongside their academic roles. Students have the unique opportunity to work with nationally recognised guest artists and prestigious dance companies through annual residencies and workshops. These partnerships provide direct links to the professional industry.

Facilities include multiple performance spaces ranging from large theatres to intimate studios, allowing for a variety of production experiences. The programme also emphasises injury prevention and functional alignment, ensuring students develop sustainable physical practices. Distinctive teaching features include a focus on arts activism and entrepreneurial skills for the modern creative economy.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 27690 per year
National fee: USD 27690 per year
Local fee: USD 8523 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Contemporary Technique
Choreography
Creative Process
Somatic Practices
Anatomy
Kinesiology
Dance History
Arts Activism
Pedagogy
Career Preparation
Entrepreneurial Skills
Functional Alignment
Partnering
Contact Improvisation
Dance Technology
Cultural Dance Forms

Careers with Dance

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the arts and culture sectors, often finding success as professional performers, choreographers, or dance educators. The B.F.A. pathway specifically equips students for entry into elite conservatories and Master of Fine Arts programmes. Many alumni also pursue careers in arts administration, pedagogy, and community dance leadership.

The skills gained during the course, such as collaboration and patience, are highly transferable to various industries beyond the stage. Former students have successfully transitioned into roles involving movement therapy, fitness instruction, and interdisciplinary arts production. The programme's focus on professional preparation ensures graduates are ready for the competitive global dance market.

Programme Structure

Classes include:

Contemporary Dance

Dance in Western Cultures

Movement and Culture

Choreography

Performance

Functional Alignment

Anatomy for Dancers

Repertory

History of Western Dance Since 1450

Theatre Production: Technology

Ballet

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-07 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-15 00:00:00
Starting 2027-04-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-09-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-31 00:00:00

More details

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bellingham, United States

Disciplines

Dance View 403 other Bachelors in Dance in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The International Student Application for Admission

$60 non-refundable application fee

An essay that helps the Admissions Committee understand your academic goals, related experiences and/or preparatory course work, and professional goals

Official academic credentials

Evidence of English language proficiency

Statement of Financial Responsibility

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

27690 USD / year

≈ 27690 USD / year
Out-of-State

27690 USD / year

≈ 27690 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8523 USD / year

≈ 8523 USD / year

Living costs

Bellingham

United States

1109 - 1684 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Dance.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Bellingham

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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